Early Childhood Education & Care – BA (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Early Childhood Education & Care – BA (Hons) at the Technological University of The Shannon is designed for aspiring educators passionate about making a significant impact on children's lives. You will delve into the critical and evolving field of early childhood education and care, exploring how to support children's holistic development from birth to age six. This undergraduate degree equips you with the essential knowledge and practical skills to foster children's strengths, interests, and abilities, while also appreciating the vital role of families and society in their formative years. You will gain a deep understanding of national frameworks like Síolta and Aistear, preparing you for a rewarding career.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, this programme offers a blend of theoretical learning and extensive practical experience. You will engage with modules covering relational pedagogy, child developmental psychology, creative skills, and inclusive practice, alongside crucial subjects like ECEC social policy and law. Throughout your studies, you will undertake significant professional practice placements, allowing you to apply your learning alongside experienced educators and develop a strong reflective practice. You will graduate with the confidence and expertise to excel as a qualified early childhood educator, ready to lead and innovate within the sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts (Honours) program in Early Childhood Education and Care provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of the sector. Students will explore relational pedagogy, developmental psychology, and contexts of early childhood, alongside practical skills in creative arts, health promotion, and collaborative work with families. The curriculum progresses to cover regulatory frameworks, inclusive practices, applied pedagogy, and professional placements, culminating in advanced studies in leadership, research, and business management within the ECEC field.

1 YEAR 1 SEMESTER 1

Principles and Practices of the ECEC Sector
Developing Academic Practice and Autonomy
Introduction to Relational Pedagogy in ECEC
Early Childhood Developmental Psychology
Contexts of Early Childhood

2 YEAR 1 SEMESTER 2

Creative Skills for ECEC
Promoting Positive Health and Wellbeing in ECEC
Working Collaboratively with Parents and relevant stakeholders in an ECEC Setting
Outdoor Pedagogy
ECEC Social Policy
Introduction to Inclusive Policy and Practice in the ECEC Setting

3 YEAR 2 SEMESTER 1

Making Learning Visible: Multimodal Approaches to Literacy in ECEC
Introduction to the Regulatory Context for ECEC
Personal Reflection for Practice (PRP)
Applied Pedagogy & Curriculum in ECEC
Preparation for Practice Placement 1
Professional Practice Placement 1

4 YEAR 2 SEMESTER 2

Child Health and Well-being: Food Safety and Applied Nutrition in the ECEC Setting
Children’s Rights and Advocacy
Language Acquisition
Applied Inclusive Practice in the ECEC Setting
Professional Practice Placement 2

5 YEAR 3 SEMESTER 1

Professional Practice Placement 3

6 YEAR 3 SEMESTER 2

Introduction to Research Methodology and Practice
Law for the Early Childhood Sector
Therapeutic Recreational & Creative Play Interventions in ECEC
Teamwork and Group Dynamics in an ECEC Setting
Business Management & Enterprise in ECEC

7 YEAR 4 SEMESTER 1

Advanced Business Management for the ECEC Sector
Childcare Environment Design
Supporting Children with Special Educational Needs in the ECEC Setting
Preparation for Professional Practice Placement 2
Applied Research Project

8 YEAR 4 SEMESTER 2

Pedagogical Leadership and Professional Practice in the ECEC Sector
Professional Practice Placement 4

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 15,881.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 63,523.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,210.00
Transport USD 562.00 - USD 1,123.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,773.00 - USD 7,438.00

Living cost estimates are based on Athlone Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsEducation Policy & AdministrationHealthcare Administration & ManagementIntellectual Property LawMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsSports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital ContentTax & Financial LawTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department of Education and Youth

GAA

Health Service Executive (HSE)

St. Vincent's University Hospital

Technological University Dublin

Technological University of the Shannon

Tusla - Child and Family Agency

University of Limerick

Why Study Early Childhood Education & Care – BA (Hons) at Technological University of The Shannon

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Technological University of The Shannon in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Early Childhood Education & Care – BA (Hons) at Technological University of The Shannon

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No additional work permit is required as long as they are enrolled full-time in a program of at least one year.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Qualifications Advisory Board.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet specific English test requirements. Acceptable scores include Duolingo with an overall score of 105, IELTS with a minimum of 6.0, or equivalent scores from TOEFL and PTE.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as preschool teachers, early childhood educators, childcare coordinators, or educational administrators.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course focuses on quality care and education for children from birth to age six and addresses the current changes in policy and legislation. Students will learn to support children's development and understand the involvement of families in education.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Early Childhood Education & Care – BA (Hons) program has an intake every September. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your place in this dynamic course.
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